My Dear Public:— I write about the girls because I want to, and because, after a good deal of self-examination, I candidly believe I have something to say about them. I have always been deeply interested in the girls; when a youngster nothing ... Read more

My Dear Public:— I write about the girls because I want to, and because, after a good deal of self-examination, I candidly believe I have something to say about them. I have always been deeply interested in the girls; when a youngster nothing so fascinated me; and, as I turn the corner, to go with the old folks, I can't see that my interest in girls is a whit less earnest. When I was occupied with the practice of my profession, my interest in the girls was so well-known, that I had an unusual number among my patients. During the years of my public lecturing, half, at least, of my audiences were composed exclusively of girls and women. When I established the school at Lexington, it was a school for girls, and, during four years, I lived in the midst of a large family of fine girls. It was a sweet, a delightful experience. My hopes of the future rest upon the girls. My patriotism clings to the girls. I believe America's future pivots on this great woman revolution. I am not a Yankee, but I believe in Yankees. This first great success in self-government, is a success, because guided by Yankee brains. I tremble lest the rudder should fall to hands, which, in other lands, have been found utterly incompetent. The Yankee brain has realized the brightest hopes of the political seer. The United States Government must not, cannot part with its wise, prudent helmsman. Is it not an alarming fact, that, among Yankees, marriage is becoming unfashionable, and children still more unfashionable; that, among the very few children born, so many die in infancy; and still again, that, among the very small number who escape the perils of childhood, so small a proportion are endowed with that vigorous health on which alone can be planted a vigorous manhood. I am so sure that I know where the trouble lies, and so strong is my confidence that I can contribute something toward its removal, I cannot refrain from speaking. May the Good Father help me to write in a truly father-spirit to those dear, beautiful girls, upon whom we are all so dependent for present happiness, and upon whom the future America must rest. And if any thought shall appear in this volume worthy their attention, may they listen, think, act. I have discussed many health topics, but this work, addressed to the girls of America, I shall fill with my whole heart, and send out, with a yearning for its success, which I have felt in connection with no other literary venture. Less